Hiking on Ulriken: 5 Trails for Every Level

1. Ulriksvarden panorama path (easy)

20–30 minutes. A gentle loop near the summit with interpretive signs and several viewpoints, suitable for families with children, older visitors and anyone who wants a short walk with big views. The path is well maintained and mostly flat, rocky but not technical — trainers work, though hiking boots are more comfortable. The signs explain the landscape, geology and local wildlife. It is an excellent first taste of mountain walking for anyone with no hiking experience.

2. Summit circuit (easy to moderate)

45–60 minutes. A longer loop that circles the summit area and drops to a small lake before climbing back. There is some elevation loss and gain, but nothing steep or technical, and the path follows red T markers throughout. The lake area is usually quieter than the main platform and gives a sense of remoteness despite being minutes from the station — the water reflections are worth the detour for photographers.

3. Ulriken to Rundemånen (moderate)

2–3 hours return. Head south from the summit towards Rundemånen (568 m), a neighbouring peak with views over the Fana peninsula and the southern fjords. The trail crosses mountain terrain with some rocky sections and is well marked but far less busy than the Vidden. The view south is rarely photographed and just as dramatic. You return the same way, back down to the summit area.

4. The Vidden trail to Fløyen (moderate to challenging)

4–6 hours one way. The classic Bergen mountain hike, connecting Ulriken to Fløyen across roughly 13 km of open plateau. It needs good footwear, adequate supplies and settled weather, but most fit adults with proper preparation can complete it. Finish by riding the Fløibanen funicular down into the city centre.

5. Descent to Montana (moderate)

1.5–2 hours downhill. Instead of riding the cable car down, walk the marked trail through forest to the Montana neighbourhood. The gradient is gentler on the knees than most descents, and the landscape shifts from open mountain to woodland as you drop. From Montana it is a 15-minute walk or a short light rail ride into town. This is the most overlooked route on the mountain, and it gives you a real hike without committing to the Vidden.

Trail safety

Always check the forecast before setting out. Weather at altitude changes faster than forecasts suggest, and the trails above the tree line are exposed — wind and cloud can turn clear conditions marginal within minutes. Carry warm and waterproof layers even on sunny days, at least 1.5 litres of water, food, and a charged phone with offline maps.

Tell someone your route and when you expect to be back. Trail markers are good but not infallible, so bring a map or offline navigation. For current conditions, ask at the cable car station — our staff know the state of the trails today, not last week. Stay on the marked paths and avoid shortcuts across the mountainside.